Plato’s Theory of Changing Poltical Systems

Oligarchy
Temptations create a confusion between economic status and honor which is responsible for the emergence
of oligarchy. In Book VIII, Socrates suggests that wealth will not help a pilot to navigate his ship, as his
concerns will be directed centrally toward increasing his wealth by whatever means, rather than seeking
out wisdom or honor.
The injustice of economic disparity divides the rich and the poor, thus creating an environment for criminals
and beggars to emerge. The rich are constantly plotting against the poor and vice versa.
Democracy
As this socioeconomic divide grows, so do tensions between social classes. From the conflicts arising out
of such tensions, the poor majority overthrow the wealthy minority, and democracy replaces the oligarchy
preceding it.

The poor overthrow the oligarchs and grant liberties and freedoms to citizens

A visually appealing demagogue is soon lifted up to protect the interests of the lower class.
However, with too much freedom, no requirements for anyone to rule, and having no interest in assessing
the background of their rulers (other than honoring such people because they wish the majority well) the
people become easily persuaded by such a demagogue's appeal to try and satisfy people's common, base,
and unnecessary pleasures.
Tyranny
The excessive freedoms granted to the citizens of a democracy ultimately leads to a tyranny, the furthest
regressed type of government. These freedoms divide the people into three socioeconomic classes: the
dominating class, the elites and the commoners. Tensions between the dominating class and the elites cause
the commoners to seek out protection of their democratic liberties. They invest all their power in their
democratic demagogue, who, in turn, becomes corrupted by the power and becomes a tyrant with a small
entourage of his supporters for protection and absolute control of his people.